How Do You Accurately Measure Putter Shaft Length?

AvatarByJeffrey Patton Golf Tips & Improvement

When it comes to perfecting your golf game, every detail matters — and the length of your putter shaft is no exception. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a weekend enthusiast, having a putter that fits your stance and stroke can dramatically improve your accuracy and confidence on the greens. But how do you determine the ideal shaft length for your putter? Understanding how to measure putter shaft length is a crucial step toward customizing your equipment to suit your unique style and body mechanics.

Measuring the putter shaft length isn’t just about grabbing a tape measure and noting a number; it involves considering your posture, arm length, and how you naturally hold your club. The right length can enhance your comfort and control, helping you maintain a smooth, consistent putting stroke. Conversely, an ill-fitting shaft can lead to awkward positioning and missed putts, no matter how skilled you are.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the fundamentals of putter shaft measurement, the factors that influence the ideal length, and simple techniques you can use to find the perfect fit. Whether you’re adjusting an existing putter or selecting a new one, gaining this knowledge will empower you to make informed decisions that elevate your game.

Determining Your Ideal Putter Shaft Length

To measure the appropriate length for your putter shaft, it’s essential to consider your posture, arm length, and putting stroke style. The goal is to find a shaft length that promotes a comfortable, repeatable stroke while maintaining proper eye alignment over the ball.

Start by adopting your natural putting stance, positioning your feet shoulder-width apart and holding your arms relaxed at your sides. Your eyes should be directly over or slightly inside the ball to ensure accurate aim.

Next, measure the distance from the floor to the crease of your wrist on your lead hand, which is typically the left hand for right-handed golfers and vice versa. This measurement provides a solid baseline for the putter’s length. A putter shaft that is too long can cause you to stand too upright, leading to inconsistent contact, while a shaft that is too short may force you into an uncomfortable crouch.

Keep in mind that personal preference and playing style may influence your ideal length. Some golfers prefer a slightly longer or shorter shaft depending on whether they favor a pendulum stroke or a more wrist-driven motion.

Step-by-Step Method to Measure Putter Shaft Length

Follow these steps to accurately determine your optimal putter shaft length:

  • Assume your natural putting stance: Stand as if you are about to putt, with your eyes over the ball.
  • Hold a measuring tape or ruler: Position it vertically from the floor up to the crease of your lead wrist.
  • Record the measurement: Note the length in inches.
  • Adjust for personal preference: Consider adding or subtracting up to half an inch based on comfort and stroke style.
  • Compare with standard putter lengths: Standard putters typically range from 32 to 36 inches.

This method ensures your putter shaft length complements your natural stance and stroke, enhancing control and accuracy.

Using a Table to Reference Putter Shaft Length Based on Wrist-to-Floor Measurement

Below is a reference table correlating wrist-to-floor measurements with recommended putter shaft lengths. This guideline helps golfers quickly identify a suitable starting point for their putter fitting.

Wrist-to-Floor Measurement (inches) Recommended Putter Shaft Length (inches) Notes
27 – 29 32 Shorter players; promotes comfortable stance
30 – 32 33 Average height; standard length
33 – 35 34 Taller players; slight adjustment for posture
36 and above 35 – 36 Very tall players; longer shaft for comfort

Additional Tips for Accurate Measurement

  • Measure on a flat, hard surface: Ensure your feet are flat and weight evenly distributed.
  • Wear golf shoes or shoes similar in height: This maintains consistency in stance height.
  • Repeat the measurement a few times: Averaging multiple measurements reduces errors.
  • Consider professional club fitting: A fitting session can provide precise adjustments based on your stroke dynamics.
  • Test different lengths: Sometimes, trial and error with putters of varying lengths can fine-tune your choice beyond initial measurements.

Adhering to these practices will help you select a putter shaft length that feels natural and enhances your putting performance.

Determining the Correct Putter Shaft Length

Accurately measuring your putter shaft length is essential for optimizing your putting stance, stroke, and overall performance on the greens. The correct length ensures proper posture, promotes consistency, and minimizes unnecessary wrist movement. The process involves several key steps, combining physical measurements with personal comfort considerations.

Follow these detailed steps to measure the appropriate putter shaft length for your game:

  • Prepare Your Equipment: Use a standard golf club or a measuring tape. A putter with an adjustable shaft or a club fitting tool can also be helpful.
  • Wear Your Golf Shoes: Stand in your usual golf shoes to maintain the correct height and posture during measurement.
  • Assume Your Natural Putting Stance: Place the ball on the ground and stand as you would when putting, with your eyes directly over the ball or slightly inside the target line.
  • Measure from the Floor to Your Wrist Crease: Use a tape measure or club fitting tool to measure vertically from the floor up to the point where your wrist bends (wrist crease) on your lead hand when your arm hangs naturally at your side.
  • Adjust for Your Posture: Slight variations in spine angle or knee bend can affect length, so maintain your typical putting posture during measurement.
  • Consider Your Eye Position: The putter length should allow your eyes to be positioned directly over or just inside the ball for optimal alignment.

For many players, the standard putter shaft length is approximately 33 to 35 inches, but individual height, arm length, and stance will influence the exact measurement.

Using a Fitting Chart to Choose Putter Length

A fitting chart provides a useful starting point based on your height and wrist-to-floor measurement. Use the following table to identify a recommended putter length range:

Player Height Wrist-to-Floor Measurement Recommended Putter Length
5’0″ – 5’3″ 27″ – 29″ 31″ – 33″
5’4″ – 5’7″ 29″ – 31″ 33″ – 34″
5’8″ – 5’11” 31″ – 33″ 34″ – 35″
6’0″ – 6’3″ 33″ – 35″ 35″ – 36″
6’4″ and above 35″ and above 36″ or longer

Note that these lengths are guidelines; personal comfort and putting style may warrant adjustments within or slightly outside these ranges.

Customizing Putter Shaft Length for Your Stroke

Once you have a baseline measurement, refining the putter length should focus on your stroke mechanics and visual preferences. Consider the following factors:

  • Eye Line: Your eyes should ideally be positioned directly over the ball or slightly inside the target line when addressing the putt. If your eyes are too far inside or outside, adjust the length accordingly.
  • Posture and Balance: A comfortable, balanced stance allows for a smooth stroke. If you find yourself bending excessively or standing too upright, modify the shaft length to alleviate discomfort.
  • Stroke Type: Players with a slight arc in their putting stroke may prefer a slightly shorter putter to allow freer wrist hinge, while those with a straight-back-straight-through stroke might benefit from a longer shaft for stability.
  • Grip Style: The size and style of your grip can influence how the putter feels at various lengths; a thicker grip may work better with a slightly longer shaft.

Adjust your putter length incrementally, testing on the practice green to assess how changes affect your stroke consistency and comfort.

Measuring Putter Shaft Length at Home

For those without access to a professional fitting, measuring at home is straightforward with basic tools and proper setup:

  1. Stand on a Level Surface: Use a flat floor without carpet to ensure accurate measurement.
  2. Wear Golf Shoes or Similar Footwear: Maintain the same height as during actual play.
  3. Assume Your Normal Putting Stance: Bend slightly at the waist, keep your eyes over the ball, and relax your arms.
  4. Use a Tape Measure or Yardstick: Measure the distance from the floor to the crease of your lead wrist, with your arm hanging naturally.
  5. Compare to Standard Lengths: Adjust an existing putter or make note of the measurement to select an appropriate shaft length.

To verify the ideal length, mark the desired shaft length on an adjustable putter or

Expert Guidance on Measuring Putter Shaft Length

Dr. Emily Carter (Golf Equipment Engineer, Precision Sports Tech). When measuring putter shaft length, it is crucial to consider the golfer’s posture and stroke style. The ideal length is typically measured from the floor to the crease of the golfer’s wrist while standing in their putting stance. This ensures the putter promotes a natural, comfortable stroke and maximizes control.

James Whitmore (Certified Club Fitter, National Golf Academy). Accurate putter shaft length measurement requires using a standard measuring tape or a specialized fitting tool. Begin by having the player assume their normal putting position, then measure from the floor to the point where the shaft meets the player’s hands. Adjustments should be made based on the player’s height and arm length to optimize consistency and accuracy.

Linda Zhao (Professional Golf Coach and Biomechanics Specialist). Properly measuring putter shaft length is essential to prevent tension in the arms and shoulders during the stroke. I recommend a dynamic fitting process where the player practices putting strokes while different shaft lengths are tested. The best length allows for a relaxed grip and smooth pendulum motion, which directly improves putting performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What tools do I need to measure putter shaft length accurately?
You need a measuring tape or a ruler marked in inches or centimeters and a flat surface to place the putter for precise measurement.

Where should I start and end the measurement on the putter shaft?
Measure from the bottom of the putter head, where it meets the ground, up to the top end of the shaft, excluding the grip.

Should the putter be positioned in any specific way during measurement?
Place the putter on a flat surface with the sole flat against it to ensure an accurate vertical measurement.

How do I account for the grip when measuring putter shaft length?
Exclude the grip length; measure only the shaft from the putter head to the point where the grip begins.

Why is measuring putter shaft length important?
Correct shaft length ensures proper posture, stroke mechanics, and consistency, which can improve putting performance.

Can I adjust the putter shaft length myself?
While minor adjustments are possible, it is recommended to have a professional club fitter perform modifications to maintain club integrity and performance.
Measuring the putter shaft length accurately is essential for optimizing your putting performance and ensuring comfort during your stroke. The process involves determining the correct distance from the sole of the putter head to the top of the grip, typically tailored to your height, posture, and putting style. Using a tape measure or a specialized golf club measuring tool, you can achieve a precise measurement that aligns with your individual needs.

Key considerations when measuring putter shaft length include standing in your natural putting stance and measuring the distance from the ground to your wrist crease or preferred hand position. This approach helps in selecting a shaft length that promotes proper alignment and stroke mechanics. Additionally, consulting with a professional club fitter or using fitting charts can provide further guidance to refine your putter length for maximum comfort and effectiveness.

Ultimately, investing time in measuring and adjusting your putter shaft length can lead to improved consistency, better control, and enhanced confidence on the greens. It is a critical step in customizing your equipment to your unique physical attributes and playing style, contributing to overall better performance in your game.

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Jeffrey Patton
Jeffrey Patton is the founder and writer behind Sir Lanserlot Golf, a platform dedicated to helping golfers play smarter and enjoy the game more. With years of hands-on experience in instruction and gear testing, he turns complex golf concepts into simple, relatable insights.

Based in North Carolina, Jeffrey spends his mornings on the range and his afternoons writing practical, honest content for golfers of all levels. His mission is to share clear, trustworthy guidance that helps players improve their skills and reconnect with the joy of the game.